Historic Connections to Learn, See, Explore, and Experience in Florence
Nestled along Oregon’s magnificent central coast, Florence is a charming town known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant community, and deep historical roots. Before it became a popular travel destination, this picturesque area was home to loggers, millworkers, and fishermen—and before that, home to the Siuslaw people, who lived in harmony with the scenic land and waters for many generations. Their legacy remains an integral part of the region’s cultural identity.
Historical Facts About Florence, OR
- Florence was officially incorporated in 1893.
- The Heceta Head Lighthouse (12 miles north on Highway 101) was built in 1894 and remains operational today. (more information follows below)
- The Siuslaw River Bridge was completed in 1936 (more information follows below)
- Florence was a major hub for logging and fishing throughout most of the 20th century.
- Historic Old Town Florence retains many original buildings and serves as a vibrant center of commerce, culture, food, and beverage.
Today, Florence is known for its seamless blend of history, nature, and adventure. Visitors come to experience the thrills of sandboarding, ATV riding, and hiking through designated areas of the rolling Oregon Dunes, of entering the striking sea caves of Sea Lion Caves, and enjoy a warm, welcoming atmosphere of the riverfront Historic Old Town. The city’s strong commitment to preservation and sustainability ensures that its rich history continues to be celebrated for generations to come.
The History of Florence, Oregon
Florence’s modern history dates back to the mid-1800s when European-American settlers began arriving in the area. The town was officially incorporated in 1893. Early pioneer families like the Ericksons, the Kyles, the Galliers, and others played a crucial role in establishing the community, building essential infrastructure, and advancing commerce. Though historical records vary, the city’s name is believed to have originated either from the Galliers' daughter, Florence, or possibly from a French shipwreck offshore.
Come get a taste of life as it was more than 150 years ago.
Visit the Siuslaw Pioneer Museum in Florence to be transported through time by a diversity of exhibits showing slices of life from before white settlers made their way to the Siuslaw Region up to life in the 1950s. Here you will discover everything from an authentic dug-out canoe and First Nation’s tools and apparel to household items of pioneer homesteaders; from early logging and fishing implements to a control panel used by the drawbridge operator; and one of the first telephone switchboards. Learn about the hard-scrabble life of those who started the logging and fishing industries around Florence in the mid- to late-1800s and see examples of the delicate side of life through the fine place settings and the handiwork of lace and quiltmakers. Pick up a walking tour guide map of Florence while you’re there. The museum’s research library is excellent.
SiuslawPioneerMuseum.com | 541-997-884 | 278 Maple St. (corner of 2nd & Maple) one block down Maple off of Highway 101, or just two blocks north of Bay St. where many of the shops, galleries, and restaurants are located in Historic Old Town Florence.
The Oregon Coast Military Museum
We will honor and never forget them.
This outstanding facility opened its doors in Florence on July 4, 2015, after a seven-year effort by locals to build a museum to honor the more than 20 percent of Florence-area residents who are Veterans. Intended to honor all eras of military heritage and all disciplines of military service, the 3,000-square foot display is filled with life-sized dioramas depicting scenes from WWI to Vietnam, plus a scaled diorama of a typical Iraqi village portraying a US military convoy traveling through. While humble in size, this facility is jam-packed with artifacts, mementos, and experiences to serve the Museum’s mission “To Honor our Veterans by Educating Our Public.” In addition to a small gift shop, the Museum also features a USO Canteen, a lending library, and a theater showing military documentaries.
OregonCoastMilitaryMuseum.com | 541-902-5160 | 2145 Kingwood Street (next to the Florence Municipal Airport)
Florence’s Growth and Key Industries
By the early 20th century, Florence began to grow as an important hub for logging, fishing, and trade, thanks to its prime location along the Siuslaw River. Timber harvesting and sawmills powered the local economy, while commercial fishing thrived due to the abundance of salmon and other seafood. For a time, shipbuilding also played a significant role, with local craftsmen constructing vessels that supported Oregon’s maritime industries. Tourism gained momentum as visitors were drawn to Florence’s stunning coastal scenery and historic landmarks.
What Else Is Florence Known For?
In its November 1986 issue, Inc. magazine included Florence in its list of "The 100 Best Small Towns in America," highlighting its appeal to retirees and resulting in a spurt of local population growth.
The designation was renewed in 2024 and 2025 by WorldAtlas.com as one of eight cost-effective towns in the Pacific Northwest for retirees and as the #2 of 9 best retirement towns in Oregon. In 2023 Florence was named to Where to Retire magazine’s Top 8 Coastal Places to Retire.
What About That Exploding Whale Incident?
A deceased whale washed ashore near Florence in November 1970 and quickly became a "stinking whale of a problem" for the Oregon State Highway Department. The Solution: After consulting with the US Navy, the department decided to use explosives to break it up, hoping the ocean and scavengers would clean up the remains. How it got famous: Reporter Paul Linnman and cameraman Doug Brazil of KATU-TV (Portland) captured the explosion on film from about a quarter mile away. As recorded by Linnman, “the blast blasted blubber beyond all believable bounds.” The archived footage later became a viral internet sensation (often credited as the first viral video) and was reported as if it were a recent event by humor columnist Dave Barry of the Miami Herald. The explosion showered bystanders (including Linnman and Brazil) and cars with bloody whale blubber. The event is commemorated by residents every November 12 as "Exploding Whale Day" with humor tempered by solemnity. The City of Florence has officially embraced the legacy by naming a local park "Exploding Whale Memorial Park" as a tribute to the event.
Historic and Notable Citizens, Movies, and Structures
Throughout its history, Florence has been shaped by dedicated citizens who contributed to its growth and cultural development. Pioneers built schools, churches, and businesses that laid the foundation for a thriving town. The construction of the Heceta Head Lighthouse in 1894 provided safe navigation along the treacherous coastline, becoming one of Oregon’s most iconic landmarks and the striking Siuslaw River Bridge enhanced motor traffic.
Since March 30, 1894, from its perch 205 feet above the ocean, this 56-foot-tall working lighthouse has cast its beam more than 20 miles out to sea, making it the brightest light on the Oregon coast.
The Heceta Head Light Station [say “Ha (or Huh) – SEE – Tah” to sound like a local] is one of the most popular and inspirational sites on the Oregon Coast; and one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world. The light station and its beautifully sheltered beach are only about 10 miles north of Florence. It is a must-see among must-sees here in Oregon’s Coastal Playground.
The leisurely walk to the lighthouse is a quarter-mile uphill (an easy-to-medium incline) from the historic lighthouse keepers’ home (now a popular bed and breakfast), which itself is a quarter mile from the public parking area. There is an interpretive center and gift shop with books, souvenirs, and themed items.
The Heceta Head Lighthouse and Queen Ann style Light Keeper’s home are both listed on the National Register of Historic Places and are popular locations for weddings and whale watching. The lighthouse underwent a major, and historically accurate, restoration between 2011 and 2013.
The Siuslaw River Bridge
The 1568-foot-long Siuslaw River Bridge, completed in 1936, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Florence, Oregon. Designed by renowned bridge engineer Conde B. McCullough, it was one of the final pieces in completing the Oregon Coast Highway (U.S. Route 101) project. It is an Art Deco and Gothic Revival-inspired bascule (drawbridge) bridge, meaning its two middle sections tilt upward to allow ships to pass. The drawbridge mechanism is housed within elegant, castle-like concrete towers, a signature style of McCullough’s work. The bridge also features graceful arches, fluted piers, and decorative spires, giving it a unique architectural beauty. The lovely Siuslaw River Bridge Interpretive Center Park is about two blocks upriver along the north bank.
Notable Individuals Connected to Florence
Florence, Oregon, has been home to several notable individuals who have contributed to the community and beyond. Here are some current and former notables:
Frank Herbert: In the mid-1950s, author Frank Herbert visited Florence to study the Oregon Dunes for a magazine article. This research inspired his groundbreaking science fiction novel, Dune, which explores themes of ecology, politics, and human survival in arid environments. The dynamic landscape of the dunes and the human efforts to manage them significantly influenced Herbert's depiction of the fictional desert planet Arrakis. The Siuslaw Public Library has a conference room named for Herbert (known to locals as “The Dune Room”) to which his family dedicated many of his writings and research.
Wilbur Ternyik: A pioneer in coastal land use planning, Ternyik served multiple terms as Florence’s mayor and was known for his contributions to environmental conservation and dune protection along the Oregon coast. His efforts played a crucial role in protecting local towns and transportation infrastructure from dune encroachment and in shaping Oregon's land-use policies.
Tom Cherones: A television director and producer best known for his work on the sitcom "Seinfeld," Cherones is among the notable individuals who have retired in Florence.
Neil Everett: The popular sportscaster renowned for his 23-year tenure at ESPN's SportsCenter began his broadcasting career at KCST-FM in Florence, Oregon.
Elena Maria Vidal: An author known for her historical novels; Vidal is among the notable individuals linked to Florence.
Notable Movies Associated with Florence
Five Easy Pieces (1970): This drama features Jack Nicholson as Robert Dupea, a former piano prodigy turned oil rig worker. Significant portions were filmed in the Pacific Northwest, including Florence, Eugene, and Portland, Oregon. Oregon has essentially no natural oil production.
Cry for the Strangers (1982): This television movie, based on the novel by John Saul, revolves around a psychiatrist and his wife who encounter mysterious events in a coastal town. Filming took place in Florence, capturing the town's coastal ambiance.
Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004): Michael Moore's documentary includes segments filmed in Florence, contributing to the film's exploration of post-9/11 America.
The Watchman's Canoe (2017): Set in 1969, this film follows a young girl who feels a deep connection to nature and embarks on a spiritual journey. Filming took place in Florence, capturing the area's natural beauty to complement the film's themes.
Clementine (2019): This independent drama tells the story of a heartbroken woman who breaks into her ex's lake house and forms a complicated relationship with a younger woman. Filming occurred in Florence, utilizing its serene landscapes to enhance the film's introspective mood.
Whether you’re exploring the historic waterfront, learning about Florence’s native or pioneering past, enjoying fresh seafood at a local restaurant, or considering Florence as a place to live (or to start or move a business), this coastal town invites you to step into its story—a story still being written by those who visit and call it home.
Special thanks to Wikipedia, ChatGBT, The Siuslaw Pioneer Museum, The Oregon Coast Military History Museum, IMDb, and Arrow’s Edge Marketing Communications for their contributions to this article.
